Good Morning.
And you shall make fifty clasps of gold, and couple the curtains together with the clasps, so that it may be one tabernacle. (Exodus 26:6)
As we continue with the concept of unity, as revealed in the Sanctuary, along with the idea that each of us are to fulfill our particular roles, it is important to acknowledge another aspect of this. Though each item and section of the tabernacle had a unique function, together they were to constitute a unified whole working together in harmony. Likewise, the different tribes of Israel — thirteen in all if we include the Levites — were to come together as one nation called Israel and “dwell together in unity” (Psalm 133). It was not enough that they were different tribes called collectively by the same name; they were to be of one heart and one soul living in peace and solidarity. Because we know, according to the words of Yeshua, a “house” or “kingdom” can be divided — it must not be so with God’s people.
When Solomon was building the Temple, the Bible records that it was to be done without the sound of hammer or iron tool (1 Kings 5:26 – 6:13). This was to symbolize the ideal of peace in God’s House. Iron and bronze, specifically, were emblematic of the tools of war (these were first mentioned in relation to Tubal Cain who was an artificer of weapons). Therefore, we are to understand that there is to be no discord, strife and violence in God’s House; His house is to be a “house of prayer for all nations.”
Unfortunately, this has not always been the case. All of us have witnessed strife and division within the House of God to the point that people part ways or congregations cease to exist. While we can’t undo the past, we can resolve to do better in the future. How can we expect the world to receive the message of God’s love if we are not demonstrating that love to one another? We are to be recognized as Messiah’s disciples by the love we have for one another and, so then, let us rise to the standard He has established and learn to truly be a people who are “one” — echad.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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